JOURNAL ARTICLE

Does humidity make heat more deadly? Scientists are divided.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2024. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Wadman, Meredith 3 of 3

Abstract

Scientists are divided on whether humidity makes hot weather more deadly. Physiologists argue that humidity makes it harder for the body to maintain a safe core temperature and ward off heat stroke. However, epidemiologists believe that temperature alone accurately predicts heat-related death rates and that adding humidity does little to improve predictions. The role of humidity in shaping mortality is still uncertain, and more research is needed to clarify its impact. The findings from both physiology and epidemiology can still inform public health efforts, such as emphasizing extra water consumption and opening air-conditioned cooling centers during heat waves. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2024/07, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
  • Publication Date:2024
  • Accession Number:178717757
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